Located in the scenic town of Fujieda, Ifriya Shrine is dedicated to Okuninushi no Kami, a Shinto deity revered as the god of agriculture and fertility. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it was initially built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and rebuilt in 1873 after being destroyed by an earthquake. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design with a rectangular main hall surrounded by two smaller halls, all made from local cedar wood. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings and paintings adorning the walls of the main hall, as well as participate in rituals performed during spring festivals to ensure bountiful harvests. Ifriya Shrine is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Shizuoka Prefecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Okuninushi no Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Okuninushi no Kami
- Coordinates
- 34.6782214, 138.0624894
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's garden during cherry blossom season to experience the beautiful blooms and serene atmosphere.
Cultural notes
In Shinto mythology, Okuninushi no Kami is believed to have created humans from a wooden stake by striking it with his sacred hammer. This legend emphasizes the importance of agriculture and fertility in Japanese culture. During spring festivals at Ifriya Shrine, locals perform rituals to ensure successful harvests and pay respects to the deity. The shrine's traditional architecture also features a prominent torii gate, symbolizing the connection between the divine and human worlds.
Historical note
Rebuilt in 1873 after being destroyed by an earthquake during the Meiji period (1868-1912 CE).